The concept of applying suction to the body to remove fat goes back to the eighties. Furthermore, over the years several different types of liposuction have come to fruition. The standard tumescent technique injects fluid into the site. After waiting a period of time suction cannulas of varying sizes are put to use to contour and remove fat. And, this is done in the most anatomic and artistic fashion possible. This is liposuction or liposculpting.
The use of vibrating cannulas and laser devices as well as ultrasonic devices are put to use but require much longer operative times. The term ab-sculpting usually in my practice refers to the male patient. The primary area for most men is to reduce the love handles or hip area. This can be a very rewarding procedure in most instances.
Liposculpting
Bodybuilders who wish to enhance their abdominal musculature often have sculpting procedures that basically selectively removes fat from the center of the abdomen. This is done in a vertical fashion. Also, it is done between the rectus muscle blocks in a horizontal fashion. I perform this successfully on many men. Bruising and swelling may occur postoperatively. And, supplements such as SILAGEN can reduce and minimize bruising.
Compression garments are very helpful. These assist in the reduction of postoperative swelling. Also, they help achieve the most desirable contouring possible. Usually, liposculpting is done as an outpatient procedure. And, it requires very small incisions. This is to both infiltrate the fluid and suction out the fat. In some instances during liposculpting strategic replacement of fat may help achieve the best outcome.
Liposuction and liposculpting are very useful procedures. Furthermore, they are a tool for plastic surgeons to assist male patients to achieve their best-looking physiques.
THOMAS TREVISANI, MD
BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
MEMBER AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
